A WOMAN born at the height of the Klondyke gold rush struck "double gold" with her 100th birthday.
Florence Smithson marked the century milestone - equivalent of two golden jubilees - with a party for family and friends at a home for the elderly in Colne, yesterday and a visit from the Mayor and Mayoress of Pendle Councillor Frank Clifford and Mrs Carol Riley.
Mrs Smithson, born in Helmshore in 1896, lived in the area until she was 65. She spent most of her working life as a weaver.
She then moved to live with her only son Neville in Hunter Street, Brierfield, before moving to Sycamore Rise Home in Hill Lane.
She has three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
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